The cat's mysterious character

The cat's mysterious character probably led to the many myths and superstitions surrounding it.

Cat's eyes were believed to tell many things – from the time of day to the state of the tides.

Cats were also believed to be clairvoyant, and were used in charms and potions to bestow that talent on people.

Many body parts and substances from the cat were used for healing. The tail was particularly favored. In parts of England it is still used to cure sties.

Nautical superstitions involving cats are numerous. There are also quite a few nautical terms with “cat” in the word – a cat-boat is a small one masted boat; the narrow walk-way on a ship was called the catwalk, and whippings were often carried out using a cat-o-nine-tails.

Cats were believed to both foretell and affect the weather. Throwing a cat overboard was thought to bring about storms at sea.

In the 13th century, witchcraft trials began in Europe. Since cats were often named as a witch's “familiar” (a spirit helpful to the witch), they acquired at this time an evil reputation.

Black cats were most strongly associated with witchcraft.

A book written in England in 1854 stated that a witch could only take on a feline form nine times. This is most likely the beginning of the myth that cats have nine lives.

Some modern day myths about cats still persist. For instance, while cats are extremely agile, it is not really true that they will always land on their feet.

It was once believed (and may still be) that cats could suck the breath from infants. The truth is that they just like the milky smell.

Though they may like it, milk really isn't good for cats. A small amount probably won't hurt, but too much can give both cats and dogs diarrhea.

Many people still believe that a black cat crossing their path brings bad luck.

Cats are inscrutable and mysterious; and can certainly look evil as easily as lovable. But all in all, they are wonderful companions and have been serving and entertaining us well for thousands of years.

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Cats are inscrutable and mysterious; and can certainly look evil as easily as lovable. But all in all, they are wonderful companions and have been serving and entertaining us well for thousands of years.

this is true - describes our cats!